OLD SCHOOL, NEW BEGINNING – It’s considered by many to be the historical heart of Moore, especially Old Town. Now, Moore Public Schools is unveiling a plan for a new building that will serve the school and community and set the stage for the future.
BEST OF MOORE
BEST OF MOORE & SOUTH OKC VOTING BEGINS — It’s time to cast votes for your favorite businesses in Moore and South OKC. And this year, make sure you check out the exciting new Best Vocal Talent category!
FIRST RESPONDER SPOTLIGHT
FIREFIGHTING LEGACY — Blake Munsey’s legacy in Moore firefighting goes way, way back and includes his great-grandfather, who helped set the standards that make MFD a topnotch department.
SPORTS
AN UNEXPECTED, BUT WONDERFUL JOURNEY — Life in Europe and the Middle East isn’t exactly what Westmoore alum Ashley Gonzalez Hankins planned. But she reveals how the faith she shares with her husband, Zach, has guided them through the roller coaster of overseas professional basketball.
The new year always brings with it a clean slate and exciting new opportunities. This is especially true in 2026. Two years ago we shared the story of Moore Public School’s purchase of the Old School Building and their plans to modernize the building and make it a functional centerpiece of the district. Those plans are still locked in, but the district is working to overcome some unexpected realities and harsh challenges.
Also, it’s time for the return of the very popular Best of Moore & South OKC Awards. This year, we’ve added a new category: Best Vocal Talent, that’s expected to add a new layer of excitement to the voting and the awards celebration. Happy 2026!
Publisher Brent Wheelbarger
Writer/Editor Rob Morris
Designer Deanna Parton
For ad placement, specifications and rates, call or email Michael Cooper 405-370-2667
michael@mooremonthly.com
Breathing New
Life into the “Heart of Moore”
Just over two years have passed since the Moore Public Schools Board of Education voted to approve the purchase of the two-story Old School Building from Charles Cotton for $965,000. That purchase culminated years of discussion about how to incorporate one of Moore’s original school buildings into
district’s holdings. It also launched the district’s exploration of the costs and requirements to renovate and modernize the aging building to house the MPS Vista program and address other district needs.
Moore Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Robert Romines said he and his team have approached the project with deep respect for the building’s history and importance to Moore.
“It has a place in Moore’s history that is important to all of us in our community,” said Romines.
“My grandfather, Guy Fulgate, actually taught fifth-grade math to Susie Pierce, the superintendent before me. So, I have a very deep and personal connection to the Old School Building.”
Architects from Abla Griffith Partnership (AGP), which has worked with Moore Public Schools for 12 years, joined MPS staff and builders to assess the building's safety and integrity.
“Our alternative programs and our night school are going to be housed in the building,” said Romines, “Ultimately, this building will end up being used more than any other school in our district. So, safety is a critical factor.”
It didn’t take long for the team to realize that rehabilitating the Old School Building would be a daunting task.
“The building was built in the early 1900s, and it was tough and strong,” said Romines, “But while the brick exterior looks good, the very old wooden interior was aging poorly. And that presented some significant challenges.”
Clay Griffin, principal architect with AGP, says that as the investigative process continued, the team also discovered they were pretty much flying blind when it came to understanding the building’s foundation.
“There were so many unknowns right from the beginning,” said Griffin, “But we also discovered there was a lack of good documentation about the foundation. We were going to have to
perform careful excavation to determine what the footings were like.”
It quickly became clear that the interior would have to be rebuilt entirely. That meant finding a way to preserve the building’s exterior walls while replacing the existing interior structure with a modern, safe reconstruction. Dr. Romines said recent construction challenges made it clear this would be a difficult path to follow.
“We were going to end up with four, freestanding walls, supported by stilts,” said Romines. “I think everyone remembers what happened to the indoor practice facility at Westmoore when that solid steel framework was hit with Oklahoma straight-line winds.”
Complicating matters was the building’s basement, which had housed the original locker room. Griffin said the unused basement had flooded multiple times and presented a major obstacle to ensuring a safe foundation for the high-use building the school district needed.
“When you start putting all these things together; shoring up the external walls during construction, filling in the basement with a sufficiently stable material, and other issues, we estimated that it would cost between $4 million to $6 million dollars just to get to the point where we could begin work on the new part of the building,” said Griffin.
Griffin added that the project's delicacy would limit the use of conventional mechanical equipment, which would also lengthen the time required to complete it and to meet modern safety standards.
“We had come up with plans to try and work around all of the obstacles,” said Griffin. “But there were just so many unknowns we couldn’t account for, along with the man-hours and materials needed, that it was going to be extremely risky.”
uch moments can lead to deep soul-searching about the importance of buildings like this to a community. After all, even if a building is aging poorly and at risk of ultimately becoming a detriment to a community, it’s still an important part of that community’s identity.
Add those factors to the unpredictability of Oklahoma’s windy weather, and it became clear to the team that keeping the building intact and restoring the interior would be impossible, both from a practical construction standpoint and from a financial standpoint. S
It’s hard to find someone more invested in Moore’s history than Mayor Mark Hamm. Mayor Hamm says he recognizes both the importance of the Old School Building to Moore’s history, along with the need to make sure the existing space continues to anchor the city’s Old Town area.
“The Old School Building is kind of the heart of the community,” said Hamm. “It’s probably the most symbolic building in Moore. I would hate for a private developer to come in and put in a fast-food restaurant or something like that,” said Hamm.
Hamm says the most important thing for him during this whole process is that he’s felt reassured that the building is in the hands of people who have the resources and genuine concern for the community at the core of their decision-making process.
“The building is so incredibly old, and you just have to have a lot of resources to maintain it,” said Hamm. “I was glad when Moore Public Schools got it back because they have the resources to invest and utilize the space. They are also folks who consistently have the best interests of the Moore community at heart, especially students, parents and teachers.”
Hamm says that while he wishes there was a way to rehabilitate and save the Old School Building, but he understands that safety concerns and the responsible use of taxpayer dollars left the school district with limited options.
“If I personally had the kind of money it took to preserve the building, I would gladly spend it,” said Hamm. “But I completely understand the challenges here and respect the school district’s decision as the best one under the circumstances.”
Dr. Romines admits that the decision to pivot from restoration to reconstruction was gut-wrenching on a lot of levels. But he also says that in the end, he believes he and his team are making the right decision for the long-run.
“I think one of the things our community respects and trusts about us if what we’ve done with our building projects,” said Romines. “We’ve always come in on time and under budget, so we have a track record of that. And as we looked at having to spend an additional $6 million of bond money on this project, it became clear we needed to change our plans.”
Griffin said shifting plans from restoration to a complete rebuilding project gave the team room to preserve the building's historic character, even though it would now be a completely new structure.
“We’re going to be replicating the three-color brick look of the original building,” said Griffin. “We’re also going to salvage some of the ‘cast stone’ pieces, especially the main front entrance. That will allow us to incorporate that back into the new building.”
Griffin says the new plans will include space to preserve elements of the old building and display them in a place of honor and reflection. That includes the “Washington Irving Camped Here” monument in front of the building and portions of the old basketball court that are currently in place on the auditorium’s stage.
“We’re determined that this building will continue to reflect its place as the heart of Old Town Moore,” said Romines. “For example, one of the things that people notice as they drive past the building is those black metal staircases on either end of the building. We don’t typically have those on a two-story school building, but we’re going to keep those because it’s a distinctive part of the Old School Building’s history and look.”
Plans include a cafeteria on the building's rear and a tornado-safe room. Griffin said plans for the new building’s exterior and interior have been made with a unique idea in mind: that if someone hasn’t seen the building in five years, they wouldn’t be able to tell it’s actually a new building, whether looking at it from the outside or inside.
“We are going to use modern materials, but it will still very much have that ‘Old School’ feel,” said Griffin. “The flooring will be a luxury vinyl, but with a wood plank look. We’re doing what’s called a ‘Crawford step’ ceiling to keep that acoustical iron look in all the rooms, and there will be wainscotting in the corridors.”
Add other elements, such as globe lighting, and the building will still feel, inside and out, like a 1920s school building, with modern safety features that will serve Moore students and staff for decades to come. The idea that resonates most with those who love Moore’s history is that future generations will see the new building as though it has always been a part of Moore’s past.
the idea that we’re going to incorporate elements of the past into this new building that will help keep us connected to where we’ve been, while embracing the journey ahead.”
It's a journey Dr. Romines believes we’re on together, one he never takes for granted.
“In the end, the Moore community really is a large family that has been through so much together,” said Romines. “We always step up,
and we take care of one another. I think decisions like this help us keep that family feel, and I never want to lose sight of that”
Once the project begins, work is expected to be completed in 18 to 24 months. That means the building could be ready sometime between fall of 2027 and spring 2028.
January 1 CLOSED New Years
JANUARY 2026
January 2 11:00 a.m. January Birthday’s 12:15 p.m. Bingo with MCOA 2:00 p.m. Table Tennis
January 5 9:00 a.m Classic Movie “Kiss Me, Stupid”
January 6 10:00 a.m Wii Sports
January 7 12:30 p.m. Board Games 1:00 p.m. Afternoon Movie
January 8 11:00 a.m Speaker Amal w/ Final Expense Info 12:30 p.m. Corn Hole
January 9 12:15 p.m. Bingo with Flora 2:00 p.m. Table Tennis
January 12 9:00 a.m Classic Movie “The Alamo”
January 13 10:00 a.m Wii Sports 10:00 a.m Library
January 14 12:30 p.m. Board Games 1:00 p.m. Afternoon Movie
January 21 11:45 a.m Fresh Cobbler 12:30 p.m. Board Games 1:00 p.m. Afternoon Movie
January 22 11:00 a.m Speaker Sarah w/ Signature Hospice 12:30 p.m. Corn Hole
January 23 2:00 p.m. Table Tennis
January 26 9:00 a.m Classic Movie “And Then There Were None” 9:45 a.m MCOA Board Meeting 12:15 p.m. Bingo w/ Scott
January 27 10:00 a.m Wii Sports 10:00 a.m Library
January 28 12:30 p.m. Board Games 1:00 p.m. Afternoon Movie
January 29 12:30 p.m. Corn Hole
January 30 2:00 p.m. Table Tennis
Exercise: Mon, Wed, & Fri 10:15
Stretch, Strengthen and Health: Tues. 9:30
Open Art Studio: Tue. 8:30 & Fri. 9:00
Arm Chair Travel: Wed. 9:00am
Woodcarving: Wed. & Thurs. 9:00 – 11:00
Dominos, Card games, Jig-Saw Puzzles, Pool, Quilting, & Volunteer work to assist the homebound or work is available at the Brand Center.
Moore Council On Aging Bus Service: 799-3130 Seniors may have transportation anywhere in the City of Moore for errands or appointments 8am to 3:30pm, Monday through Friday
Aging Services
Monday through Friday
Call & make reservation by 1:00pm. Reservations for meals: 793-9069
Donation for a meal for seniors 60 & above: $3.00
Required cost for guests under 60: $6.00
COLD WEATHER SAFETY FOR OLDER ADULTS
Older
adults are more likely to be affected by cold weather. Changes that come with aging can make it harder for older adults to recognize when their bodies are becoming too cold, which can quickly turn into a dangerous health issue.
Hazards of cold weather include falls on wintry surfaces, injury caused by freezing (frostbite), and hypothermia, a medical emergency that occurs when your body temperature gets too low. Being informed and taking certain actions can help lessen risks during the colder months.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS AND COLD WEATHER
Older adults are more likely to have certain chronic medical conditions that make it harder to stay warm:
• Diabetes can prevent blood from flowing normally, preventing it from providing warmth.
• Thyroid problems can affect the body’s ability to maintain a normal body temperature.
• Parkinson’s disease and arthritis can make it challenging to put on more clothes, use a blanket, or get out of the cold.
• Memory problems can cause a person to forget to take precautions for staying weather-safe, such as wearing appropriate attire.
Some medications can affect body heat, too. These include prescription medications and those bought over the counter, such as some cold medicines. Ask your doctor if medications you take may affect body heat and what you can do.
WHAT IS HYPOTHERMIA?
Hypothermia occurs when the body’s core temperature drops below 95°F. It is often caused by exposure to cold temperatures and can lead to serious health problems, such as arrythmia (irregular heartbeat), heart failure, and damage to the kidneys or liver.
Hypothermia is a medical emergency. If someone is showing signs of hypothermia, call 911 right away. Try to move the person to a warmer place, offer them a warm drink, and wrap them in dry blankets, towels, or coats.
• Here are some tips for keeping warm when the temperature drops outside:
• Check the weather forecast for windy and cold days. A heavy wind can quickly lower your body temperature — try to stay inside or in a warm place.
• If you must go out on windy, cold, or damp days, don’t stay outside for long.
• Let others know when you’re planning to spend time outdoors and carry a fully charged mobile phone.
• Keep warm blankets and extra cold-weather clothing in your car.
• Wear a hat, scarf, and gloves or mittens to prevent loss of body heat through your head and hands. Also consider using disposable or rechargeable hand- and foot-warming products.
• Wear warm and loose layers of clothing. The air between the layers helps to keep you warm.
• Wear a waterproof coat or jacket if it’s snowy or rainy.
• Change out of damp or wet clothes as soon as you can.
REDUCE THE RISK OF FALLS
To help reduce the risk of falls in icy and snowy weather during the winter months, it’s important to ensure that surfaces are as dry and safe as possible.
• Keep outside walkways clear of snow and ice with an ice melt product or sand.
• Avoid shoveling snow yourself when possible. In addition to the risk of falling, there is a risk of heart attack for older adults while shoveling snow.
• Use railings to help avoid slipping on icy stairs and walkways.
• Wear nonskid, rubber-soled, low-heeled footwear. If possible, stay inside when the weather is bad. Consider using services that deliver prescriptions, groceries, and other necessities so you don’t need to go out.
STAYING WARM INDOORS
About 20% of injuries related to exposure to cold occur in the home. Here are some tips to help keep warm:
• Set your heat to at least 68°F. Even mildly cool homes with temperatures from 60 to 65°F can lead to hypothermia in older adults.
• Place a rolled towel in front of doors to keep out drafts.
• Keep your blinds and curtains closed, and if you have gaps around the windows, try using weather stripping or caulk to keep the cold air out.
• Dress warmly on cold days, even if you are staying inside. Wear socks and slippers and make use of throw blankets.
• When you go to sleep, use extra covers. Wear long underwear under your pajamas and consider wearing a head covering.
• Make sure you eat enough food to maintain your weight — some body fat is necessary for staying warm.
• Avoid or limit alcohol intake. Alcoholic drinks can make you lose body heat.
• Ask someone to check on you during cold weather. If a power outage leaves you without heat, try to stay with a relative or friend.
These tips will help you and others stay cozy and warm this winter. Enjoy your time in your home with crafts, movies, telephone calls, and naps.
Best of Moore & South OKC2026
CONGRATULATIONS
to everyone who was nominated for the 2026 Best of Moore & South OKC Awards. We'd also like extend a hearty “Thank You!” to everyone who participated in the nomination process for sharing your choices with us!
Now that the nominations are in and it's time to get busy voting for this year's awards. Voting ends at midnight on February 28, 2026. This will be the only round of voting and all voting takes place online at MooreMonthly.com. You may vote multiple times in as many categories as you like. Heck! Go ahead and vote in every category!
At various points in the voting process we'll pull back the curtain to the public know how things are going. If you have any questions regarding the voting process please email rob@mooremonthly.com or michael@mooremonthly.com
BEST VOCAL TALENT
We’re excited about this new category and the talented folks who have submitted videos this year. Because it’s a new category, we were still accepting entries right up until the magazine went to press, so those entries will be posted on the MooreMonthly.com website on January 1st. Voting for the Best Vocal Talent category will have its own dedicated page on MooreMonthly.com, where voters can view the videos and vote for their favorite. The top three finalists in this category will perform live during the 2026 Best of Moore & South OKC Awards dinner at the Riverwind Casino in March.
WINNERS
The top three finishers in each category will be invited to our festive Best of Moore & South OKC Din-
ner in March. We’ll be returning to the Showplace Theater at Riverwind Casino. That’s where the "#1 vote-getter" will be revealed. The runners-up will also be recognized at the “Bommies”, so that everyone goes home a winner. Follow us on Facebook, X(formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok for information about how you can attend the 2026 Best of Moore & South OKC awards banquet.
This year’s awards dinner will be especially festive, featuring entertainment and live music by Michael Cooper and the Moore High School jazz band, along with live performances by our three finalists in the new Best Vocal Talent category.
CATEGORIES
You can check out all the categories and entries here:
BEST ATTORNEY
• Chapman Law
• Foshee & Yaffee
• McIntyre Law
• Moore Probate & Estate
• Ramick Law
• Ylla Gosney
BEST BANK
• Armstrong Bank
• Arvest
• BancFirst
• Central Bank
• First Fidelity Bank
• First United Bank
• FNB Community Bank
• Midfirst Bank
BEST BBQ
• Dale's BBQ
• Oklahoma Smoke BBQ
• Ray's BBQ - Santa Fe
• Swadley's BBQ
• Van's Pig Stand
BEST BREAKFAST/ BRUNCH
• Black Bear Diner
• Boom-a-rang Diner
• Oklahoma Smoke BBQ
• Nosh
• Sunny Side Up - 19th Street
• Sunnyside Diner - SW 89th
BEST BURGER
• Boom-a-rang Diner
• Braum's
• McDonald's-34th & Santa Fe
• Nosh
• Oklahoma Smoke BBQ
• The Garage
• Soda Pop's Cafe
BEST CBD/CANNABIS STORE
• American Cannabis Company
• Cheers Cannabis
• Green Gorilla Smoke & Vape
• Green Hope Wellness
BEST CHILDREN'S PARTY SPOT
• City of Moore Park
• HeyDay Entertainment
• Jump!Zone
• The Station at Central Park
• Urban Air
BEST CHIROPRACTOR
• Bodin Chiropractic
• Moore Chiropractic
• Revive Family Chiropractic
• Angela Schmidit
• Thrive Chiropractic
• Victorious Life Chiropractic
BEST COFFEE SHOP
• Black Rifle Coffee Club
• Coffee Darling
• Okie Beans Coffee Company
• Panera Bread
• Scooter's Coffee
BEST COLD BEVERAGE (NON-ALCOHOLIC)
• HTeaO
• Jordan's Skinny Mixes (Inside Painted Tree)
• Sonic
• Summer Snow Entertainment
• Swig
BEST CREDIT UNION
• Allegiance Credit Union
• Tinker Federal Credit Union
• True Sky Credit Union
• USE Federal Credit Union
• WEOKIE Credit Union
BEST DENTAL CARE
• Moore Complete Dental
• Dental Innovations
• Fleming Dental
• Homsey Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
• Kenneth Noble, DDS
• OKC Smile
BEST DOG GROOMING
• Doggie Styles
• Earthwise Pet
• Gremlin Grooming
• The Painted Paw Dog Spa
• The Paw Spa Elite
• Urban Doghouse
• Vera's Posh Paws
BEST DOGGIE DAYCARE/ BOARDING
• Board to the Bone
• The Hairy Potter Inn
• Green Acres K9 Boarding
• Urban Doghouse
BEST DOG TRAINER
• 4B Kt Consulting
• Got Your Six Service Dogs for Veterans
• K9 Elite
• Leadership K9
• PetSmart
• ROC Animal Training
• Tipsy Dog Training
BEST DONUTS
• 5 Star Donuts
• Donut Palace & Kolache
• Dunkin' Donuts
• Homemade Donuts-27th & Santa Fe
• Honey Bee Bakery
BEST ELECTRICIAN
• Bliss Electric
• CAP Electric
• Comfort Wave Home Services
• Couser Electric
• Guerrero Electrical Service
• New Age Electric
• Norman Air
• Waggoner Heat & Air
• Wilcox Electric
BEST FITNESS CENTER
• CrossFit Exile
• Earlywine YMCA
• Four Star Fitness
• Gold's Gym
• Moore Fit Body Boot Camp
• Orangetheory
• The Station at Central Park
• YMCA Healthy Living Center - S. Western
BEST FUNERAL SERVICES
• John M Ireland & Son Funeral Home & Chapel
• Moore Funeral & Cremation
• Resthaven Funeral Home
• Vondel Smith Funeral Home
BEST HAIR SALON
• Attitudes
• Glamoore Salon - Hair by April
• Hair by Jami Brewer
• Lunatic Fringe
• Posh Salon
• Salon Escape
BEST HEALTH FOOD/DRINK STORE
• Fit Body Nutrition
• Goodlife Nutrition
• Green Acres Market
• The Social Fix
BEST HEAT & AIR
• A-1 HVAC
• AccuTemp Heating & Air Conditioning
• Better Heat & Air Conditioning
• Direct Air LLC
• Next Level Heat & Air
• Norman Air
• Randall's Specialists
BEST HOSPITAL
• Community Hospital
• Norman Regional
• Integris SW Medical Center
• Mercy Hospital
• Oklahoma Heart Hospital South
• SSM Health St. Anthony
BEST INSURANCE AGENCY-HOME/AUTO
• Terry Cavnar-State Farm
• Chad Cobble Insurance
• Evans State Farm
• Freeman Clark Shelter Insurance Agency
• Jessica Max Allstate Insurance
• Thurman Lynch Allstate Insurance
BEST INSURANCE AGENCY HEALTH
• Doyle Crow & Associates
• Medicare Basic Training - Lowell Bynum
• Shane Peterson-Health Markets
BEST LANDSCAPE/LAWN CARE
• Don's Lawn Care and Weed Control
• Elite Lawn Care
• Marcum's Nursery
• Tender Lawn Care
BEST LIQUOR STORE
• 49 West Wine & Spirits
• Bootlegger Liquor
• Cheers Wine & Spirits
• East Moore Liquor
• Greenway Plaza Liquor
• Lam's Liquor
• Moore Liquor
• Sammy's Liquor
BEST MASSAGE THERAPY
• A Balanced Body Message Therapy Clinic
• CJM Wellness
• Massage Envy
• Mountain Bliss Massage
• VIP Massage
BEST MEAL PREP
• CrockStar Dinner Club
• Nosh
• OnPoint Meal Prep
• Platelee
BEST MEDICAL SPA/SKIN CARE CLINIC
• Adonai Spa & Wellness
• Beyond Beauty by Diana
• Namaste Spa
• RaeLuxe Aesthetic
• Touch of Serenity Wellness Spa
BEST MEXICAN DINING
• Alfredo's Mexican Cafe
• Hidalgo's Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
• Las Bandidas
• Lazy Donkey
• Ricky's Cafe
• Tacologia Mexican Restaurant
• Ted's Cafe Escondida
BEST ORTHODONTIST
• Craig and Streight Orthodontics (CSO)
• Elassal Orthodontics
• Kelly Klontz Orthodontist
• Orthodontics Exclusively
• Sky Ortho
BEST OB/GYN
• Andrea Miller, DO
• Tiffany Dupree, DO
• Linzi Stewart, DO-Harmony Women's Healthcare
• Julie Wiley, DO
BEST PEDIATRICS
• Just Kids Pediatrics
• Mercy Clinic Primary Care
• Norman Regional Moore Pediatrics
• Stellar Pediatric Urgent Care
BEST PHARMACY
• Chris' Express Pharmacy
• Med's & Moore
• Moore RX
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER
-SPORTS & EVENTS
• 405 Sports Photography
• BGW Sports Photography
• PJ's Printing & Photography
BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY
• Cutting Edge Physical Therapy
• Norman Regional Moore
• OSSPT
• Perfect Peace
• Physical Therapy Central
BEST PIZZA
• Bella's Pizzaria
• Eagle One
• Hideaway Pizza
• Jet's NY Slice
BEST PLACE TO WATCH THE GAME
• Buffalo Wild Wings
• Industry Gasto Lounge
• Louie's Grill & Bar
• Lumpy's
• Mooney's Pub & Grill
BEST PLUMBER
• Armstrong Plumbing
• Brandon's PlumbinG
• B&B Plumbing LLC
• Comfort Wave Home Services
• Dalton's Plumbing
• Norman Air
BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY
• Chamberlin Realty
• McGraw Realtors
• Prime Realty Inc
• Providence Realty
• ReMax Lifestyles
BEST ROOFING COMPANY
• 3 Dimensional Roofing
• Dream Team Roofing & Construction
• Jones Roofing & Construction
• Maupin Roofing and Construction
• McBride Roofing and Construction
• Prosper Roofing and Construction
• Statewide Roofing
• Triple Diamond Roofing
BEST SANDWICH/SUB SHOP
• Chicken Salad Chick
• City Bites
• Jersey Mike's
• Jimmy John's
• McAlister's - Moore
• Schlotzsky's
• Soda Pop's Café
BEST SENIOR LIVINGASSISTED/MEMORY CARE
• Jasmine Estates of
• Oklahoma City
• Legend at Rivendell
• Sommerset Neighbor -
hood Assisted Living & Memory Care
• Village on the Park
BEST SENIOR LIVING-INDEPENDENT
• Chateau on the Green
• Grace Point Living
• The Grove
• Southwest Mansions Independent Living
BEST TRAVEL AGENCY
• Bentley Hedges Travel Service
• Hourglass Travel & Events
• Vincent Vacations
BEST URGENT CARE
• Access Medical Center
Urgent Care - Santa Fe Ave
• Classen Urgent Care
• HealthCare Express Urgent Care
• Norman Regional Urgent Care
• Premier Plus Urgent Care
• Quick Urgent Care-Moore
BEST VETERINARIAN
• Eastmoore
• Greenbriar Veterinarian
• Scroggins Animal Hospital
• Silver Leaf Animal Hospital
• Spay Xperts
BEST WINGS
• Buffalo Wild Wings
• Industry Gasto Lounge
• Louie's Grill & Bar
• Lumpy's
Thanks to our Sponsors!
Sponsor Spotlight
First United provides purpose-based banking products and financial services. That purpose is to inspire and empower others to Spend Life Wisely®. Servicing Oklahoma and Texas for over 120 years, First United offers information that educates, empowers, and inspires each person to reach their highest purpose, realize their fullest potential, and reach their greatest success. If you are a small business, commercial entity, family, or non-profit, First United has product offerings that can help fit in your life journey.
Terry Cavnar State Farm Insurance
Winter Home Energy Efficiency Tips
Open those curtains! Let the sun naturally heat your home
Find and seal air leaks
Maintain your heating system
ROCK Featuringclassic Featuring
Written and Directed by
ROCK
James Briggs
FUN-draiser, Dinner and show February 11-14
Join a popular YouTuber as she revisits one of the strangest unsolved lake deaths you’ve never heard of. A who-done-it featuring classic Yacht Rock anthems. The Sooner Theatre's annual Murder Mystery FUN-draising dinner and show benefits all programs of The Sooner Theatre. However, the night is for adults only. Bring your cash so you can bribe (we mean tip) your cast for clues in this not-quite-right, but hilariously funny dinner and show.
For more info and tickets:
www.soonertheatre.org
Adjust the temperature to as low as is comfortable — use those cozy blankets!
Set water heater temperature to 120ºF
Scan or visit link.okcoop.org/winter for more tips
Tiffany Herndon
MNTC CPR Flex Medical Instructor/Coordinator
Tiffany Herndon received an ASN, RN from Oklahoma City Community College and a BSN, RN from Oklahoma City University. She worked as an RN with Norman Regional Health Systems before accepting an adjunct position at Moore Norman Technology Center. Tiffany has worked in Health Careers at MNTC for 11 years. She has been involved in classroom instruction, skills training, hands-on clinical experience, and now coordinates the district’s CPR Flex Medical program.
Skilled Workforce Series
CPR TRAINING – LIFE-SAVING SKILLS
Why is CPR and Stop the Bleed training so critical?
For Healthcare professionals it is expected to have the critical skills gained through high quality CPR training to recognize several life-threatening emergencies. Providing CPR, using an AED, and relieve choking in a safe, timely and effective manner can be the difference between life and death. In a time of crisis, we rely on healthcare professionals to know how to provide information about Emergency Medical Services (EMS) activation, risk factors, signals and actions for survival of adults, children and infants in distress. The CPR and First Aid training and renewal training are essential to being able to act when the unexpected happens.
It is also important for any person with the duty to respond to a first aid or cardiac emergency because of job responsibilities or regulatory requirements. Whether you work in healthcare or not, many other workers are in situations where they need to know how to manage illness and injuries in the first minutes until professional help arrives.
We know that event the average citizen who wants to be prepared for the unexpected event of cardiac arrest or serious life-threatening injury can perform this critical skill. With the right training and certification, you will have the ability to act.
What skills will students learn?
Moore Norman Technology Center offers training sessions for all levels of experience. The 2020 AHA guidelines provide the foundation for saving lives from cardiac arrest It teaches both single rescuer and team basic life support skills for the application in both pre-hospital and in facility environments, with a focus on high quality CPR and team dynamics. In other training sessions, students will learn and demonstrate meaningful skills practice and testing, perform effective CPR with AED instruction and First Aid and manage illness and injuries until professional help arrives.
Will students be certified?
There are different certifications the participant receives depending on the type of CPR or First Aid training. MNTC is an official American Heart Association (AHA) Training Center so after successful completion of the CPR BLS class, the student will receive an AHA eCard via email from American Heart Association. Participants in the Heartsaver First Aid class, the student will receive AHA Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED eCard via email from AHA and successful completion of the training.
How do you sign up for the programs?
TCPR certification must be renewed every two years, so it is important to remember to update your training before it expires. Prospective students can enroll online at mntc. edu or call 405-801-5000.
MOORE MOORE
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Munsey Carries on Family’s Long Firefighting Legacy
It’s safe to say that Lieutenant Blake Munsey was destined to wear, not just a firefighter’s uniform, but that of the Moore Fire Department. His family’s legacy of firefighting in Moore goes back to his great-great-grandfather.
“Thomas Mann, who was my great-great-grandfather, built that first firefighting ax that you see on the wall over at Station One,” said Munsey. “He actually used the end of a railroad spike to make it.”
For Munsey, the names are familiar and all about family. The family has deep roots in Moore and are men who helped establish a rich legacy of community support and firefighting excellence. Thomas Mann, Harold Moore, Ralph Ward, and Richard Munsey, who was Blake’s father.
Some were volunteers. Some were chiefs. All were proud firefighters. So, there was never really a question where Munsey’s heart was grounded.
“The fire service was always my first choice,” said Munsey. “Even though it was kind of the family business, I was never pushed that way. But growing up in a family where serving the community was such a large part of who we were, it was just natural for me to follow in those footsteps.”
Munsey started applying for firefighting jobs while he was still in high school, even as he took night school courses to earn his certifications.
“I went to work doing construction in our family business in Moore after graduating from high school,” said Munsey. “And I just continued the
application process, especially here in Moore, where I knew the chiefs from growing up in the community.”
Munsey says he considers it a huge blessing that he was hired here in Moore and continues to work here to this day.
“Working in the same community where I grew up and experienced so many great memories,” said Munsey, “I’m one of those folks who can remember 34th, and Telephone was a dirt road intersection and everything around 19th Street was pretty much farmland. So, I have that sense of history.”
Moore’s growth and the disappearance of all that farmland led Munsey and his wife, who he’s known since 8th grade, to move to Blanchard and establish their own farm.
“I love to see Moore’s growth, but I’ve always had this love for farm life, agriculture, and raising cattle,” said Munsey. “So, we decided to move out to Blanchard and run a farm of our own.”
Munsey’s memories of growing up in Moore include conversations with his grandfather over coffee, listening to stories about the community. He’s happy that his kids are having that same kind of upbringing.
“My kids are very involved in sports and my wife is a Spanish teacher,” said Munsey. “We run cows on our farm and the kids are also pretty involved in FFA, showing pigs and swine. Again, I can’t imagine being more blessed than I am to be able to do that and work for the Moore Fire Department.”
VIRTUAL PROGRAM
Tuesday, January 13, 6:00 p.m. – Book Discussion on Angel Fire East
Saturday, January 10, 10:30 a.m. – Early Explorers
Monday, January 12, 19, 26, 1:30 p.m. – Get Moving with SAIL
Wednesday, January 14, 10:30 a.m. – Early Explorers: Oodles of Noodles
Wednesday, January 14, 21, 28, 1:30 p.m. – Get Moving with SAIL
Thursday, January 15, 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Story Time (3-5 years)
Thursday, January 15, 6:30 p.m. – Information Investigation: Genealogy Club
Thursday, January 15, 6:30 p.m. – Creativity Unleashed: Woodburning
Friday, January 16, 23, 30, 10:30 a.m. – Toddler Story Time (1-3 years)
Everything is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infections
Author:John Green
Reviewer: Taylor Bellamy, Library Associate, Southwest Oklahoma City Public Library
Only John Green, author of The Fault in Our Stars, Youtuber, Podcaster, co-creator of Crash Course, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, could write a book about Tuberculosis that both breaks your heart and also makes you want to burn down capitalism, health care systems, and everything else that allows a curable disease to kill 1.25 million people a year.
Consumption, phthisis, the white plague, Koch’s disease, TB. Tuberculosis has gone by many names throughout history, and many historical events can be linked to tuberculosis. Diving into the history of tuberculosis, Green explores how it is truly “everywhere,” having had long-lasting cultural effects on society. Poetry, Stetson hats, the location of the Manhattan project, and even Adirondack chairs that were popularized in tuberculosis sanatoriums can all be linked to the disease. The fact that tuberculosis has been and is everywhere is the problem. “‘And so we have entered a strange era of human history: A preventable, curable infectious disease remains our deadliest. That's the world we are currently choosing.”
John Green does what he does best, crafts a narrative that centers on empathy and the humanity of those affected while still educating the reader on the detrimental illness that unnecessarily wrecked so many lives. This book is excellent at making the reader care about a disease that is mostly worlds away and does not threaten the reader (all though cases have sprung up in the U.S. since this book was published earlier this year.) And while it does educate you in the facts of tuberculosis, it is always through the human element, rather than medical jargon. Green paints a poetic yet grim picture of his visit to a tuberculosis hospital in Sierra Leone and the people he met there.
You can feel his empathy and anger leak off the page. The fact that these people have had to suffer when a cure is available and even sue for treatment would make anyone want to rage. It is a surprisingly short read, but one that you won’t want to put down. He quickly shows the issue in confronting the disease and the problem is not that we can’t fix it, it is that we choose not to fix.
This book will infuriate you. We all know drug companies are greedy, but it makes it even more despicable when you read about real life people who had to sue for treatment and still died anyways because it came too late, and people like those Green met in Sierra Leone, who lost years of their life waiting for life saving medications that wouldn't come because their country couldn't afford them. The slashes to foreign aid and disease prevention that has occurred since publication will only increase the issue of tuberculosis worldwide. But with Green bringing awareness to this disease, and so many eyes being open, I have to have hope that things could change.
“In a world where everyone can eat, and access healthcare, and be treated humanely, tuberculosis has no chance. Ultimately, we are the cause. We must also be the cure.” -John Green
Everything is Tuberculosis is available through the Pioneer Library System in print, audio, or as a downloadable eBook or audiobook. For more information on this title or other recommendations, call the Southwest OKC Public Library at 405-979-2200, or visit us in person or online at pioneerlibrarysystem.org.
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
OU FRED JONES, JR. MUSEUM OF ART
555 Elm Avenue, Norman, OK
ART A LA CARTE: STEVEN YAZZIE
January 21, 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Join us on Wednesday, January 21st at 3pm (CST) for the next installment of Art a la Carte: Steven Yazzie. The Art a la Carte program series features bite-sized conversations with special guests who share unique insights and perspectives about artwork in the permanent collection or special exhibition. Be a part of this live online event as we take a deep dive with artist Steven Yazzie into his exhibit Rivers and Roads: Steven Yazzie in Action, now on view at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art. You won’t want to miss this fascinating conversation with the artist himself! For more information, visit ou.edu/fjjma/visit/ events or call 405-325-3272.
OCCC VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
7777 S. May Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK
AFRIQUE EN CIRQUE
Tuesday, January 13, 7:30 p.m.
Step into the world of "Africa in Circus," a spectacle that seamlessly blends captivating sets with awe-inspiring acrobatics and gravity-defying human pyramids. Whether it's an intimate indoor venue or a bustling outdoor festival, our productions promise to captivate audiences of all ages.
Experience the magic of Kalabanté Productions – where each performance is a celebration of passion, skill, and the unyielding spirit of African creativity. Join us on this exhilarating journey and let's create unforgettable moments together. Welcome to a world where culture meets circus, and dreams take flight. Ticket prices $40 - $75, plus handling fees. For more information call 405-682-7579 or email BoxOffice@occc.edu.
GISELLE
Thursday, January 29, 7:30 p.m.
Step into the hauntingly beautiful world of Giselle — one of the most beloved and enduring masterpieces of classical ballet. With breathtaking artistry and emotional depth, the Grand Kyiv Ballet brings this timeless story of love, betrayal, and redemption to life on stage. Featuring music by Adolphe Adam and choreography inspired by Marius Petipa, Jules Perrot, and Jean Coralli, this production captures every nuance of the ballet’s romantic and spiritual power — from the joyful innocence of the first act to the ghostly elegance of the second.
Ticket prices $40 - $65, plus handling fees. For more information call 405-682-7579 or email BoxOffice@occc.edu.
CHURCH & SPIRITUAL CONNECTION
FIVE LOAVES FOOD PANTRY
Wednesday, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sundays, 1:30 to 3:00 p.m.
291 W. Main Street – the Northeast Door. Or by appointment: call 405-794-6671 (Moore First United Methodist Church).
FRESH START COMMUNITY CHURCH FOOD PANTRY
open the third Thursday of each month 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
309 N Eastern Avenue, West Campus-Family Life Center. Canned and dry goods available. Must be a resident of Moore (please bring an ID).
CELEBRATE RECOVERY
Monday nights 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Faith Crossing Baptist Church, 13701 S. Pennsylvania. For more information, contact Nancy at 405-514-9990.
CITY MEETINGS AND EVENTS
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday January 5 at 6:30 p.m.
Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore
PARKS BOARD MEETING
Tuesday, January 6 at 6:00 p.m.
The Station at Central Park, 700 S. Broadway.
URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITY
Monday, January 12 at 6:30 p.m.
Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT MEETING
Tuesday, January 13 at 5:30 p.m.
Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore.
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
Tuesday, January 13 at 7:00 p.m.
Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, January 20 at 6:30 p.m.
Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore
COMMUNITY CONNECTION
ADOPT-A-PET
Open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., closed on holidays.
Moore Animal Shelter, S-I35 Service Road. For additional information call (405) 793-5190.
AMERICAN LEGION MOORE POST 184
Monthly Membership Meetings: 7:00 p.m. (Every 2nd Tuesday of every month). Post is open for business Tuesday and Thursday afternoons 12:30- 3:30 p.m.
207 SW 1st Street, Moore, OK. 73160
VA Certified VSO on-duty to serve all veterans and their families with VA Claims. 'No Veteran Left Behind' Tel: (405) 794-5446
BIG TRASH PICK UP
Moore residents will be allowed two FREE big trash pick-ups a year and one free voucher to the city landfill for each physical address in Moore. Call (405) 793-5070 to schedule your trash pick-up.
DEPRESSION AND BIPOLAR SUPPORT ALLIANCE
Moore Public Library, 225 S. Howard Ave., Meetings on Thursdays from 6:30 p.m. –7:30 p.m. For more information email Josh Turzanski at josh@dbsaok.org.
NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH PROGRAM
Moore Police Dept. is starting a Neighborhood Watch Program. If you’re interested in helping your neighborhood reduce crime, contact Sgt. Jeremy Lewis, (405) 793-4448.
OKLAHOMA PARKINSON’S ALLIANCE SUPPORT GROUP
First Tuesday of each month (no meeting in July) 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
13200 S. May Ave. For more information contact the Oklahoma Parkinson’s Alliance at 405-8100695.
MOORE ROTARY CLUB MEETING
Weekly on Wednesdays
12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Moore Chamber of Commerce, 305 W. Main St.
Moore Rotary Club meetings are held weekly. At our meeting, we aim to have fellowship and fun, enjoy a good meal and listen to an interesting speaker as well as communicate activity updates to members. There are membership fees associated to Rotary International. Come visit at least once and we’ll be happy to discuss membership options. Rotary International is an international service organization whose stated purpose is to bring together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian ser-
vice and advance goodwill and peace around the world. It is a non-political and non-religious organization. For more information, contact Dee Ann Gay at 405-300-6202.
405 BUSINESS CLUB
Weekly on Wednesdays
11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Toby Keith’s “I Love This Bar & Grill”, 1199 S. Service Road. Here members learn more about each other's businesses and pass referrals between members of the group, all while building friendships, camaraderie, and eat lunch. Meetings are open to visitors looking to find a networking group to join, however; we only allow one business per business category. So before you choose to come, please check out our membership and determine if there is an open seat for you & your business in our group.
NORMAN NEWCOMERS MEETING
Second Monday of the month, 10:00 a.m. First Christian Church, 220. S. Webster. You don’t have to live in Norman to join in. For more information, contact Susie Orsenigo at 561-9140771.
THE MOORE TIPS CLUB
Weekly on Thursdays, 12:00p.m. - 1:00p.m.
Business and Networking meeting, every Thursday, 12:00 p.m. at Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill, 1199 SS I-35 Service Road. A small but effective business networking group, empowering others through valuable and trusted recommendations. We strive to build each member’s business. Do you have a question about our business referral group, or do you want to see if we match your specific needs? Join us on Thursdays from 12pm – 1pm in Moore, Oklahoma @ Toby Keith’s. See the map for location! Send us a message or call one of our members! We're always happy to connect with new businesses! For more information visit mooretipsclub.com.
MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Closed for New Year’s Day, Thursday, January 1
MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE COMMUNITY COFFEE
Wednesday, January 7, 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Village on the Park, 1515 Kingsbridge Drive. Start your day with a cup of coffee and great company at our Community Coffees! These informal gatherings are the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow community members, business professionals, and local leaders in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. What to Expect: Networking: Build meaningful relationships and grow your connections within the community. Conversation: Engage in casual discussions
about local initiatives, business updates, and upcoming events. Community Spotlight: Learn about local businesses, nonprofits, and key projects shaping our area. Community Coffees are a great way to stay connected, share ideas, and start your day with positive energy. For more information call 405-794-3400 or email info@moorechamber.com.
SOUTH OKC CHAMBER SERIOUSLY FUN NETWORKING
Thursday, January 8, 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. HeyDay Entertainment, 3201 Market Place, Norman. This is one of the Chamber's networking groups. The Seriously Fun Networking meets for happy hour on the first Thursday of each month at one of the Chamber-member place of business. We always have a round of self-introductions and will begin having a few mini-spotlight speakers. For more information contact Jamie Crowe at 405-634-1436 or email JamieCrowe@southokc.com.
MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NETWORKING LUNCH
Tuesday, January 13, 11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, 1525 South I-35 Service Road. Join us for a Networking Lunch, a casual and engaging opportunity to connect with fellow professionals while enjoying a delicious meal at a local restaurant. These lunches are designed to help you expand your network, share your business highlights, and discover new opportunities. Spotlight Opportunity: Each attendee has up to one minute to introduce themselves, their business, and share a highlight or tidbit about their company. Should you need or want more than one-minute, additional opportunities are available to increase your exposure at this event. Contact Tish Norman, Director of Development and Engagement, for more details. Bring your business cards and get ready to share, connect, and grow your network in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. For more information call 405-7943400 or email info@moorechamber.com.
SOUTH OKC CHAMBER BUSINESS NETWORKING LUNCH
Wednesday, January 14, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Foodies Kitchen, 2801 West I-240 Service Road. This is one of the Chamber's networking groups. Come join us, we meet for lunch each month at one of the Chamber-member restaurants. We always have a round of self-introductions and open networking. Pre-register on the Monday Morning Memo or the Chamber's online calendar so that we can prepare appropriately! For more information, contact Jamie Crowe at 405-634-1436 or email JamieCrowe@ southokc.com.
SOUTH OKC CHAMBER COFFEE & COMMERCE NETWORKING
Friday, January 16, 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. McDonald’s, 4208 S. Western Ave. Join us for our Coffee & Commerce networking! We have a round of self-introductions plus opportunities for free-style networking with other business professionals! We meet on the 3rd Friday morning of each month! For more information, contact Jamie Crowe at 405-634-1436 or email JamieCrowe@southokc.com.
MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE COMMUNITY COFFEE
Wednesday, January 14, 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Chris’ Express Drug, 12032 S. Western Ave. Start your day with a cup of coffee and great company at our Community Coffees! These informal gatherings are the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow community members, business professionals, and local leaders in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. What to Expect: Networking: Build meaningful relationships and grow your connections within the community. Conversation: Engage in casual discussions about local initiatives, business updates, and upcoming events. Community Spotlight: Learn about local businesses, nonprofits, and key projects shaping our area. Community Coffees are a great way to stay connected, share ideas, and start your day with positive energy. For more information call 405-794-3400 or email info@moorechamber.com.
MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE –CLOSED FOR MARTIN LUTHER KING JR DAY, MONDAY, JANUARY 19
MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE COMMUNITY COFFEE
Wednesday, January 21, 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. SSM Health Medical Group, 828 SW 4th Street. Start your day with a cup of coffee and great company at our Community Coffees! These informal gatherings are the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow community members, business professionals, and local leaders in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. What to Expect: Networking: Build meaningful relationships and grow your connections within the community. Conversation: Engage in casual discussions about local initiatives, business updates, and upcoming events. Community Spotlight: Learn about local businesses, nonprofits, and key projects shaping our area. Community Coffees are a great way to stay connected, share ideas, and start your day with positive energy. For more information call 405-794-3400 or email info@moorechamber.com.
MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WIN NETWORKING HOUR
Tuesday, January 27, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Nosh Restaurant and Catering Creations, 200 SE 19th St. This is your chance to connect with inspiring women professionals, exchange ideas, and foster meaningful relationships in a supportive and welcoming environment.Whether you’re looking to grow professionally, find mentorship, or simply enjoy great company, the WIN Networking Hour is the perfect opportunity to make lasting connections. Let’s empower, engage, and elevate each other! For more information call 405-794-3400 or email info@ moorechamber.com.
MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EGGS & ISSUES
Wednesday, January 28, 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Moore Chamber of Commerce, 305 W. Main Street. Join us for Eggs & Issues, a breakfast series where business and community leaders gather to discuss key legislative and business topics that impact the Moore business community. This event provides a unique opportunity to engage with elected officials and gain valuable insights into policies and initiatives at the local, county, state, and federal levels. For more information call 405-794-3400 or email info@moorechamber.com.
SOUTH OKC CHAMBER INSTANT CONNECTIONS
Wednesday, January 28, 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Village on the Park, 1515 Kingsridge Drive, OKC. Start 2026 with building your professional network! This fast paced networking event is in a roundtable format and will allow attendees to share information about their respective businesses. Attendees are allowed 90 seconds at each table to share information and then move to a new audience and repeat the process. Remember to bring your business cards or company swag to hand out! A light breakfast will be provided by Village on the Park. The session is free; but a $10 no-show fee applies to any cancellations after January 26. Instant Connections is limited to the first 36 responders and is a members-only event. For more information, contact Elizabeth Fox at 405-634-1436 or email ElizabethFox@southokc.com.
SENIOR CONNECTION
TRANSPORTATION:
• Metro Transit will provide van service for age 60 and older on Tuesdays and Thursdays from the Moore area to Oklahoma City for medical appointments. Call Jackie at (405) 297-2583.
• Moore Council on Aging. Seniors may have transportation anywhere in the City of Moore for errands or appointments. 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Monday – Friday. Call (405) 799-3130 at least one day in advance.
• “Share-A-Fare” for age 60 and over or disabled. Purchase taxi fare at 40% off.
ACTIVITIES & CLASSES
This is a partial list of schedules, activities, and classes available through the Moore Parks & Recreation department. You can find something of interest for everyone by visiting Moore Parks and Recreation website at: cityofmoore. com/parks or by calling The Station front desk at (405) 793-5090
CAMPS
KIND
OF
A BIG DILL CAMP (1 DAY PICKLEBALL CAMP)
WHEN: January 5
TIME: 9am - Noon
FEE: $25
AGES: 6-12 tyears
WHERE: The Station Recreation Center, 700 S Broadway Ave.
REGISTRATION: Online at cityofmoore. com/fun or in-person at The Station Front Desk
ACTIVITIES& PROGRAMS
TOGETHER
WE
ARE MOORE – WINTER WREATH
The Station Recreation Center strives to be a place where all are welcomed. "Together We Are Moore" is specifically designed for those with special needs in our community and provide them with a safe and welcoming environment where they can create fun projects and explore their creative side. Come and join us for some fun as we create memories and make new friends! Those who do not meet this requirement are encouraged to enroll in another exciting activity. Participants of all ages must be accompanied by a parent, adult participation required
WHEN: January 9
TIME: 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
FEE: Free – Advance Registration Required
AGES: 6-12 years – Adult Participation Required
WHERE: The Station Recreation Center, 700 S Broadway Ave.
REGISTRATION: Online at cityofmoore. com/fun or in-person at The Station Front Desk
DOING MOORE FOR KIDS – WINTER WREATH
Moore Parks and Recreation would like to do more for your kids! This fun and free Saturday afternoon class is sure to get your kids' excitement going! In each class we will offer up a fun and exciting project that you and your kids can do together! Come and join us for the fun! This particular activity will require a parent/guardian to be present and help assist your child with the activity.
WHEN: January 10
TIME: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
FEE: Free – Advance Registration Required
AGES: 5-10 years – Adult Participation Required
WHERE: The Station Recreation Center, 700 S Broadway Ave.
REGISTRATION: Online at cityofmoore. com/fun or in-person at The Station Front Desk
AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE (ASL) FOR KIDS
Come learn sign language with us! In this exciting 6-week introductory class, participants will begin to learn the basics of sign language. By the end of the course, you will be able to sign simple phrases and increase your knowledge as you begin your exciting journey with American Sign Language!
WHEN: Tuesdays, January 13 – February 17
TIME: 6-7pm
AGES: 8-14 years
FEE: Free (online registration required)
WHERE: The Station Recreation Center
REGISTRATION: Through January 12, Online at cityofmoore.com/fun or in-person at The Station Front Desk
AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE (ASL) FOR ADULTS
Come learn sign language with us! In this exciting 6-week introductory class, participants will begin to learn the basics of sign language. By the end of the course, you will be able to sign simple phrases and increase your knowledge as you begin your exciting journey with American Sign Language!
WHEN: Tuesdays, January 13 – February 17
TIME: 7-8pm
AGES: 15+
FEE: Free (online registration required)
WHERE: The Station Recreation Center
REGISTRATION: Through January 12, Online at cityofmoore.com/fun or in-person at The Station Front Desk
DIGITAL PARENTING: SMARTPHONE SAFETY FOR FAMILIES
Learn how to protect and guide your children in today's digital world. This class is designed to equip parents with practical tools and strategies for keeping kids safe, setting healthy boundaries, and fostering responsible smartphone use. Join us to gain confidence and peace of mind as you navigate technology together as a family! THIS CLASS IS SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR PARENTS. CHILDREN MAY ATTEND WITH THEIR PARENTS OR VISIT OUR CHILD WATCH AND KIDS CLUB AREA
WHEN: Saturday, January 17
TIME: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
AGES: For parents of children ages 5-to-teenagers.
FEE: Free for passholders/$4 for non-passholders (online registration required)
WHERE: The Station Recreation Center
REGISTRATION: Through January 12, Online at cityofmoore.com/fun or in-person at The Station Front Desk
MLK JR. DAY KID CRAFTS
Come and join us for a time of crafting and fun! Kids will be able to express their creative side with several themed projects along the way. PARENTAL PARTICIPATION REQUIRED.
WHEN: January 19
TIME: 6pm-7pm
AGES: 4-8 YEARS
WHERE: The Station Recreation Center, 700 S. Broadway
FEE: Free (online registration required)
MOMMY & ME – SNOWMAN STACK CRAFT
Come and join us for a fun time as we explore the world of arts and crafts! Designed specifically for Mom’s and their little ones. Mommy & Me introduces kids to the wonders of arts and crafts at an early age. Don’t miss out on this wonderful time with just you and your little one! PARENTAL PARTICIPATION REQUIRED.
WHEN: January 31
TIME: 10am-11am
AGES: 2-5 years
WHERE: The Station Recreation Center, 700 S. Broadway
FEE: Free (online registration required)
A Change of Colors: Lingo Steps into New Role at Moore High School I
AN EXPECTED (BUT WONDERFUL) JOURNEY: WESTMOORE GRAD EMBRACES ADVENTURE
t was 10 years ago that Ashley Gomez Hankins roared through an epic senior year at Westmoore, nabbing conference player of the year honors and being named to The Oklahoman Super Five team.
She followed that with a stellar career at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she was a three-time Big East All-Academic Team honoree.
She also met, fell in love, and married Zach Hankins, who played for the Musketeers men. That marked the beginning of a journey that has deepened her faith in ways she never expected.
T“I was diagnosed on July 23rd, and my doctor was able to get me scheduled for surgery the first week of August, which is unheard of,” said Ashley. “They removed half of the thyroid where the cancer was, and I have a clean bill of health.”
So, some more stamps in the passport, and it was off to Granada for the Hankins family. That was followed by Zach’s signing with Maccabi Tel Aviv in
he French fashion design er Coco Chanel once said, “The best color in the whole world is the one that looks good on you.” Af ter nearly two decades of wearing Southmoore’s navy blue and gold, Jason Lingo, who was just announced as the new Athletic Facilita tor at Moore High School ( (AMOST!!!) (, is revamping his wardrobe with lots of Moore Lions red and royal blue.
“The Lord has been tell ing me, since Zach and I married five years ago, that I am not in control,” said Ashley. “And He keeps showing me that, no matter how many times I try to take the wheel.”
That journey took the Hankins on an epic journey as Zach pursued a pro fessional basketball career that has taken the couple to the Czech Re public, Israel, Australia (ALMOST!!!), back to the United States, Puerto Rico, back to Israel, Romania, Spain, and then back to Israel again just a few weeks ago.
“It’s going to take a little getting used to,” said Lin used to the Southmoore colors, and hon estly, everybody is accustomed to seeing me with the Sabercat-head logo. So, it’s a change.”
“It’s been a roller coaster ride, forsure,” said Ashley. “I keep saying that our highs are really high and our lows are really low.”
That ride was especially emotional this past year after Ashley visited a doctor in Romania for an ear infection. The doctor discovered she had an enlarged thyroid, so when Ashley and Zach came home to the States for the summer, she saw her doctor here.
Lingo says there’s been so much about his time at Southmoore that he treasures.
“It was a real honor and privilege to be a part of opening Southmoore and getting the softball program started,” said Lingo. “Roy Hunt, Dewayne Hunter, and
Jeff Smalls were great to work with, and I cherish those memories so much. I appreciate their confidence in me and my brother.” But even as he cherishes his time at Southmoore, Lingo says that when he saw that Moore High looking for a new letic facilitator, he ready for this specif-
“He played a game with Granada on Saturday, signed with Maccabi Tel Aviv on Sunday, and was on a plane to Tel Aviv on Monday,” said Ashley.
She packed up the couple’s belongings and took care of the paperwork for their beloved dog, Dixie. With Maccabi Tel Aviv playing a tough road schedule in December, Ashley came back home to spend Christmas with her family. That gives her time to reflect on God’s goodness through her and Zach’s
“It all seems so crazy as I look back at it, but the Lord has orchestrated everything perfectly,” said Ashley. “Not just the discovery and treatment of the cancer, but also through the many people we’ve met in all the different countries we’ve been in.”
“I talked to Coach Fitzgerald about my interest in it,” said Lingo, “And then I went home and really thought about it. I realized that I was ready to try this next step. So, I interviewed for the job.”
That enthusiasm was met with an equal response on the administrative side of things.
“My bloodwork was normal, but the ultrasound was suspicious,” said Ashley, “So we did a biopsy the next morning, and the results came back immediately: thyroid cancer.”
Complicating things even more, Zach had just signed a contract to play for Corivan Granada in the top professional basketball league in Spain. Ashley says that even though the diagnosis of cancer was frightening, God showed her that He was in control.
For many folks, that kind of journey would be unsettling, especially in a world where war and strife are common, but for Ashley and Zach, it’s been an ongoing affirmation of God’s grace and goodness.
“I can’t say enough about Coach Fitzgerald and Dr. Romines,” said Lingo. “I really appreciate the confidence they have in me to fill this important role. I also can’t say enough about how excited
“There are just things in my life I look at and think, ‘I have no idea how we were able to do that,’” said Ashley. “I’m telling you, it was not in my own strength. It’s because of the Lord that I was able to have peace and do it.”
(All
MOORE
BASKETBALL
January 6 NW Classen
January 13 @Sand Springs
January 16 Ponca City
January 20 Bixby
January 22-24 John Nobles Tournament
January 27 @Union
January 30 Enid
SWIMMING
January 9 @Casady
January 13 @PCO
January 23 COAC Meet
WRESTLING
January 2-3 @Texas Outlaw Tournament
January 8 MWC
January 15 Moore Festival
January 17 @COAC Tournament
January 20 District Duals
January 20-21 Yukon Tournament
January 29 Yukon
SOUTHMOORE
BASKETBALL
January 6 Edmond North
January 8-9 @Skiatook Tournament (Girls)
January 13 @Deer Creek
January 16 @Sapulpa
January 20 @Yukon
January 22-24 John Nobles Tournament
January 27 Westmoore
January 30 US Grant
SWIMMING
January 9 @Casady
January 13 @PCO
January 23 COAC Meet
WRESTLING
January 9-10 @Larry Wilkley Invitational (Boys)
January 9-10 @Mustang Invitational
January 15 Moore Festival
January 17 @COAC Tournament
January 20 District Duals
January 23 @Russellville
January 30 @Chickasha Classic (Boys)
January 30 @Sand Springs (Girls)
WESTMOORE
BASKETBALL
January 6 Putnam City West
January 8-10 @Enid Classic
January 12 Santa Fe
January 13 @Edmond Memorial
January 16 Choctaw
January 19 @Moore
January 20 @Mustang
January 22-24 John Nobles Tournament
January 27 @Southmoore
January 30 Norman North
SWIMMING
January 9 @Casady
January 13 @PCO
January 23 COAC Meet
WRESTLING
January 1 @Union (Girls)
January 2-3 @Union Tournament
January 8 @Sand Springs
January 9-10 @Jenks Tournament (Boys)
January 15 Moore Festival
January 17 COAC Tournament
January 20 @Piedmont
January 22 Carl Albert
January 23-24 @McLoud Tournament (Girls)
January 23-24 @Yukon Tournament (Boys)
January 29 Districk Duals
January 30 @Sand Springs Tournament
@Big 4+4 Tournament (Boys)
Photos by BGW Sports Photography and Adrian Espinoza.
December brought a dusting of snow to Moore, along with another fantastic Christmas Spectacular!
By Alisa Gore, OSU Agriculture
EASTERN REDCEDARS CONTRIBUTE TO SPREAD OF THE LONE STAR TICK
An Oklahoma invasive species has become a haven for another problematic species, which has the potential to create a range of problems for human, wildlife and livestock health, as well as the environment.
Native to the rocky areas of eastern Oklahoma, eastern redcedar has been documented spreading through grasslands across the state, which affects rangeland quality and livestock productivity, as well as having negative impacts on water resources. According to studies, the trees spread by 40 square miles per year in Oklahoma.
Eastern redcedars use a significant amount of water, which reduces the amount of water running off into streams and reservoirs where it is needed. Not to mention, once it’s established, eastern redcedar proves to be a highly flammable fuel for wildfires.
Now, ticks, particularly the lone star tick, are also spreading statewide into western Oklahoma. Is this a coincidence? According to Dr. Scott Loss, OSU professor of natural resource ecology and management, and Dr. Bruce Noden, OSU professor of entomology, it’s not.
Noden and graduate student Jozlyn Propst found evidence that the expansion of eastern redcedar across the state into the western grasslands is contributing to the spread of ticks by creating a hospitable environment for them to thrive.
“When I first came to Oklahoma in 2014, we conducted surveys, and surprisingly, we found lone star ticks all the way out to the western border of Oklahoma,” Noden said.
Noden began asking the question of how the lone star tick — which needs a large amount of humidity — survives in the dry, western areas of Oklahoma. The lone star tick is the primary species that carries alpha-gal syndrome, a condition that causes a person to become allergic to red meat.
“I was talking to an agricultural producer in western Oklahoma, and I asked him where he would find ticks on his property, and he said, ‘Everybody knows they’re down in the cedars,’” Noden said. “It was common
knowledge among cattle producers, but no one had put some science behind it yet.”
Propst said eastern redcedar creates a “humidity dome” for the lone star tick, making the area under redcedar trees moister than the surrounding environment and allowing ticks to remain alive until they can attach to wildlife.
Loss said that while they have not yet evaluated how eastern redcedar affects the ability of ticks to find host blood meals, he is sure there is a wildlife and livestock angle, where the ticks are attaching themselves to animals that frequent areas with the cedar trees.
“It could be deer, small mammals, birds or any number of animals that they are finding as resources within eastern redcedar trees,” Loss said. “You go into an arid environment like western Oklahoma in the summertime, and it’s obvious that it feels cooler and more humid during the day under redcedar trees, making it evident that the trees are changing the microclimates and habitats.”
Loss said natural resource ecology and management graduate student Landon Neumann recently published a study confirming that the microclimate of the grasslands changes with the invasion of cedar trees.
“There is certainly evidence now that areas with eastern redcedar retain moisture more consistently and return it to the atmosphere as water vapor, which is creating the new microclimates,” Loss said.
Noden, Propst and Loss are also researching the potential for tick-borne pathogens to increase due to the expansion of eastern redcedar trees.
“In addition to supporting pathogen-infected ticks, we have also found that most of the West Nile Virus-infected mosquitoes that we’ve collected have been found in cedar, so that’s another disease angle, which makes sense because the climate created by the trees would also be hospitable for mosquitoes,” Noden said.
Loss and Noden said their hope is that their research can inform property managers and landowners about the risks of not managing eastern redcedar on their property, including the risk of tick-borne disease transmission to humans and livestock.
“We hope future studies will provide an understanding of how redcedar may be central to supporting the hosts that ticks and mosquitoes are feeding on and contributing to the survival of arthropods in hot, dry areas of the state,” Noden said.
